Burnely youth theatre production will showcase host of achievements

A SHOW celebrating the past, present and future of Burnley is being staged next month at Burnley Youth Theatre.

The ‘Made in Burnley’ gala evening will take place at the theatre in front of business leaders and civic chiefs on Wednesday, June 18.

BYT, the first purpose-built youth theatre in the UK, has teamed up with fellow arts organisations Horse and Bamboo Theatre, Mid Pennine Arts and In-Situ for the special one-off extravaganza.

The event will shine a light on the town’s achievements to date and its hopes for the future through a series of theatrical scenes, dance and music.

It will be based around six Burnley themes; football, the mills and weaving, the Towneley art collection, enterprise, war and the canal.

An exhibition on the evening will also showcase some of the artistic endeavours of Burnley’s business community.

Mandy Precious, BYT artistic director, said: “Burnley Youth Theatre was referred to as the jewel in Burnley’s crown. It still is and we want as many people as possible to see it shine.

“The gala is the perfect opportunity for that and to make new friends who want to get involved.

“This innovative collaboration of the four local arts organisations aims to develop strong, long-term relationships with the town’s commercial sector, draw attention to the threat of losing ground-breaking local arts organisations, and convey the importance of the arts for local people.

“Being part of a theatre teaches you skills that are applicable in all walks of life.

“Responding to deadlines, working in teams, public speaking, confidence, emotional intelligence — these are just some of the skills our young people pick up.”

Special invitations, hand-written by members of the theatre, have been sent out this week to Burnley-based business owners for the night, with a three course dinner, drama and song celebrating the best of Burnley. Earlier this year the theatre opened a new £455,000 cultural hub, named the Moira Preston Building after a much-loved volunteer of 36 years.

Tickets for Made In Burnley cost £20 and are available from the box office on 01282 427767.